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How to Export Fishmeal to China: Market Trends and Registration Requirements

China is an important market for global fishmeal suppliers. However, entering the Chinese market requires more than competitive pricing and reliable production capacity. Overseas manufacturers must also understand the applicable market access and registration requirements.

In 2026, tighter global supplies and uncertainty surrounding Peru’s fishing season have kept fishmeal supply and prices in focus. For exporters considering China, now is a good time to review both market conditions and regulatory requirements.

1. 1Fishmeal Market Outlook in 2026

Global fishmeal production has faced supply pressure in 2026, particularly due to disruptions to Peru’s fishing season.

According to the International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO), cumulative fishmeal production among reporting countries was significantly lower year on year through August 2026. IFFO also indicated that global production could fall below 4.6 million metric tonnes for the year.

China’s fishmeal inventories were also reported to be below average at the end of September.

These developments highlight several factors exporters should monitor:

* Supply availability: Fishing quotas and raw material supplies can affect production.

* Price volatility: Supply changes may influence international quotations.

* Market demand: Chinese demand varies with aquaculture production and feed economics.

* Import eligibility: Market opportunities are only relevant when the product meets China’s applicable requirements.

For exporters, monitoring market trends and checking regulatory eligibility early can help support better business decisions.

2. Can Your Fishmeal Be Exported to China?

Before preparing an application, manufacturers should confirm whether their country and specific product are eligible for export to China.

Requirements may vary depending on the country of origin, source species, processing methods and intended use.

Key questions include:

* Where is the fishmeal manufactured?

* Which fish species are used as raw materials?

* What processing methods are applied?

* Is the product intended for animal feed?

* What country-specific and product-specific requirements apply?

Approval in another export market does not automatically mean that the product can enter China. A preliminary eligibility assessment is therefore an important first step.

3. GACC Registration for Fishmeal Manufacturers

China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) administers relevant registration and inspection requirements for overseas feed manufacturers.

Depending on the applicable regulatory route, fishmeal exporters may need to complete the required facility registration before shipping products to China.

Supporting documents may include:

* Company registration and manufacturing licences.

* Factory information and production process descriptions.

* Product specifications and ingredient information.

* Quality management and safety control documents.

* Traceability procedures and relevant testing reports.

The application process generally involves checking eligibility, reviewing documents, coordinating the required submission and responding to official review requests.

The exact procedure and timeline depend on the product, exporting country and applicable requirements. Submission does not guarantee approval.

4. Does Fishmeal Require MARA Registration?

GACC facility registration and registration with China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) are different regulatory matters.

Certain imported feed products require a MARA import registration certificate. However, the requirements depend on the product’s classification and the applicable Chinese regulations. Some feed materials may follow different regulatory routes.

Before proceeding, exporters should confirm:

* The product’s classification under Chinese regulations.

* Whether MARA registration is required.

* Whether additional country-specific requirements apply.

* How product registration relates to facility registration.

The correct registration pathway should be confirmed before starting the application.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fishmeal exporters should avoid several common mistakes:

* Skipping the eligibility check: A complete application cannot overcome an applicable market access restriction.

* Confusing facility and product registration: These are separate regulatory matters.

* Submitting inconsistent documents: Product names, specifications and manufacturing information should match across relevant records.

* Waiting until shipment planning: Compliance checks should begin before commercial commitments are finalised.

Early preparation can help reduce avoidable delays and uncertainty.

6. How RingOne Technology Consulting Can Help

RingOne Technology Consulting supports overseas feed manufacturers seeking access to the Chinese market.

Our services may include:

* Preliminary market access assessments.

* GACC registration guidance.

* MARA registration assessment where applicable.

* Document review and preparation support.

* Application coordination and follow-up.

We help manufacturers identify the relevant regulatory pathway and understand the next steps before investing time and resources in an application.